Volvo has a long-standing reputation for creating some of the safest, most reliable vehicles on the road, but now it’s stepping up its game in luxury and technology. Enter the Volvo XE90, the brand’s most expensive and advanced car ever produced. TechRadar contributor Leon Poultney recently got behind the wheel of this all-electric SUV to see if it lives up to the hype. With cutting-edge Lidar technology promising enhanced safety features, the Volvo XE90 aims to redefine what an electric vehicle (EV) can be.

A Glimpse into Luxury: The Volvo XE90

From the moment you step into the XE90, it’s clear this isn’t just another Volvo. The design is sleek, with a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic that feels both modern and luxurious. High-quality materials, including sustainable wood trims and vegan leather, give the interior an upscale yet environmentally conscious vibe. The cabin is spacious, filled with natural light thanks to a panoramic roof, and equipped with a 14.5-inch infotainment display that’s powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS.

The driving experience is equally impressive. The XE90 is equipped with dual motors that provide a combined output of over 500 horsepower, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds. Despite its size, the SUV handles with agility, thanks to an adaptive air suspension that adjusts to road conditions in real-time. But what truly sets the XE90 apart is its cutting-edge safety technology.

Cutting-Edge Lidar Tech: The Future of Safety

Volvo’s reputation for safety is legendary, and the XE90 takes it to the next level with advanced Lidar technology. This is a first for the brand, and it promises to make the XE90 one of the safest vehicles on the road. Lidar, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, uses laser pulses to create a 3D map of the vehicle’s surroundings, providing precise information about other cars, pedestrians, cyclists, and obstacles, even in low-light conditions.

Unlike traditional cameras and radar systems, Lidar can detect small objects at a greater distance and with higher accuracy, significantly improving the vehicle’s ability to avoid collisions. Volvo’s system is integrated with the XE90’s advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking, making it capable of semi-autonomous driving in certain conditions.

The XE90’s safety features are not just reactive but proactive. The Lidar system constantly scans the environment, predicting potential dangers before they become a problem. For instance, the car can detect a cyclist about to cross into its path and automatically apply the brakes, all without any input from the driver. This level of predictive safety is a game-changer, setting a new benchmark in the industry.

Sustainability Meets Performance

The Volvo XE90 isn’t just about luxury and safety; it’s also a statement in sustainability. The SUV is powered by a 111 kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 370 miles on a single charge, making it a practical choice for long-distance driving. Charging is swift, thanks to the vehicle’s 800-volt architecture that supports ultra-fast charging, allowing you to add 200 miles of range in just 20 minutes at a compatible station.

Volvo’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond the powertrain. The XE90’s construction features recycled materials, and the interior is free of animal leather, using alternatives like Nordico—a textile made from bio-based and recycled materials. The company’s goal of becoming fully carbon-neutral by 2040 is embodied in every aspect of this vehicle.

The Price of Innovation

The Volvo XE90’s price tag of over $100,000 places it firmly in the luxury segment, but considering the advanced technology, luxury materials, and sustainable ethos, it’s clear why it’s the most expensive Volvo ever made. The XE90 isn’t just a car; it’s a statement about the future of driving, combining cutting-edge technology, luxury, and environmental responsibility.

Final Thoughts

Driving the Volvo XE90 feels like stepping into the future. It’s not just the most expensive Volvo ever made; it’s a glimpse of where the automotive industry is heading—a place where luxury, safety, and sustainability coexist. With its advanced Lidar technology, the XE90 redefines what we can expect from an electric SUV, setting new standards in both safety and innovation. For those who can afford it, this Volvo offers not just a vehicle but an experience that feels ahead of its time.